Black Cowrie

Cypraea sp.

Identification	Dark brown-to-black glossy shell with a pale underside; enveloped in life by a dark mantle. Sold as the Black Cowrie (the Serpent's Head Cowrie, Monetaria caputserpentis, is a common representative).
Origin	Indo-Pacific reefs
Maximum Length	1–1.5 inches
Minimum Tank Size	20 gallons
Reef Compatibility	Mostly reef safe — grazes algae; may nibble sponges

Behavior

The Black Cowrie is a small, hardy grazing snail with a dark, glossy shell that is kept polished by its enveloping mantle. It is a peaceful, mostly nocturnal member of the cleanup crew, gliding over rock and glass to consume film algae and detritus. Its dark shell and manageable size make it an attractive, functional addition to reef and nano systems. Like other cowries it is most active after dark.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivore leaning herbivore. Grazes film algae, detritus, and encrusting growth. In a clean tank supplement with dried seaweed. May occasionally nibble sponges or soft corals, though less than the larger cowries.

Cautions

Generally reef safe, but like all cowries it can sample sponges or soft corals — monitor in a coral-heavy tank. Nocturnal; may hide by day. Sensitive to copper and poor water quality; drip acclimate. Keep away from shell-crushing predators.